Automated cleaning systems for vehicles, often housed in a tunnel-like structure, offer a swift and convenient method for exterior washes. A typical setup involves a conveyor belt that guides the vehicle through various stages, including pre-soaking, soap application, scrubbing with brushes or cloth strips, rinsing, and often a final drying process using large blowers or other drying mechanisms. Some facilities provide additional services like undercarriage cleaning, tire shine application, and waxing.
This automated approach to vehicle maintenance saves considerable time and effort compared to hand washing. The standardization of the process often results in consistent cleaning results. Furthermore, many of these facilities utilize water reclamation systems, contributing to water conservation efforts. Historically, the concept evolved from simple manual wash bays to the sophisticated mechanized systems prevalent today, driven by consumer demand for quicker, more efficient cleaning solutions.